Mental Health Resources To Be Made Available To Hurricane Responders

FORT MYERS, FL — Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis unveiled a Florida Division of Emergency Management website to help Hurricane Ian rescuers deal with the stress and trauma they've been facing for the past week.

Overseen by Florida Division of Emergency Management State Disaster Recovery mental health coordinator, Sara Newhouse, the website will connect first responders with resources to handle the day-to-day tragedies as they continue working in Fort Myers, ground zero for Hurricane Ian, and other impacted parts of the state.

DeSantis talked about the website and the resources it offers while helping distribute meals at the First Responder Base Camp in Lee County Monday. Agencies from across the state and nation have sent volunteers to Lee County to monitor and distribute supplies, conduct search-and-rescue missions and respond to 911 calls.

“I am proud of Florida’s first responders and fortunate to have the opportunity to say thank you,” said DeSantis. “They have been on the front lines since the moment Hurricane Ian impacted Southwest Florida. They have rescued, comforted and strengthened Floridians devastated by the hurricane, and I commend them for their dedication and courage. We know the ripple effect of a disaster goes beyond physical destruction to include grief and distress in a community, and those serving on the front lines of Florida’s communities have the full support from our state, including the mental health aspects of recovery.”

She said being away from their families and responding to traumatized residents in the devastated area is no easy task.

"These first responders have gone beyond the call of duty," she said.

On Monday, the first lady also joined the Florida National Guard and first responders to deliver food and water to residents on Pine Island, one of the islands that has been cut off from Fort Myers and the mainland after the causeway collapsed during the hurricane

“While we are working to restore ground transportation and utilities, the National Guard and first responders have supported the community every step of the way," she said. "The governor and I are grateful for their service.”

DeSantis said she's equally grateful to see how Floridians, and the country in general, have embraced the hurricane victims, providing food, water, clothing, medical supplies, cleaning supplies and other necessities as well as contributing to the Florida Disaster Fund, which DeSantis established to serve as Florida's official private fund offering financial assistance to help residents recover.

In partnership with public, private and other non-governmental organizations, the Florida Disaster Fund has raised more than $26 million.

To contribute, click here or text DISASTER to 20222.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are also doing their part to help the hurricane victims and honor the first responders working tirelessly at disaster sites.

During Sunday's matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Bucs announced the launch of its "Florida Strong" relief effort that includes raising funds for those impacted, honoring emergency personnel and first responders, and uniting impacted communities throughout Florida.

The NFL Foundation has pledged to match the $1 million donation already made by the Bucs' owners, the Glazer Family, to aid those impacted by the hurricane.

"We are committed to supporting the thousands of Floridians who are dealing with tragic circumstances and in need of assistance following this catastrophic storm," said Buccaneers co-owner Darcie Glazer Kassewitz. "By raising funds, honoring our brave first responders and encouraging others throughout the state to help where they can, we will show that together we are Florida Strong."

Prior to Sunday's game, the Buccaneers dedicated pre-game activities to those affected by Hurricane Ian and first responders with a tribute video.

The Buccaneers have also invited emergency personnel throughout the Tampa Bay area to participate as honorary guests in the pre-game coin toss, including Florida Department of Law Enforcement Special Agent In Charge Mark Brutnell, the Florida Sheriff's Association Task Force Chairman and Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford, the Tampa Police Department, Tampa Fire Rescue, Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, Clearwater Police Department, Clearwater Fire & Rescue Department, Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, St. Petersburg Police Department, St. Petersburg Fire Rescue, Bay County Sheriff's Office, Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Florida Highway Patrol.

Additionally, the organization is selling "Florida Strong" T-shirts to support those impacted by Hurricane Ian. The T-shirts are available for purchase here.

Fans can show their support by visiting the Red Cross website or texting the word IAN to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

Floridians wishing to volunteer can visit Volunteer Florida’s webpage to find opportunities to distribute meals, help with debris cleanup and assist with other needs through Volunteer Connect.